Packers.com has consulted more than two dozen mock drafts from reputable national outlets and compiled a list of players most frequently mocked as draft selections in the middle portion of the first round (picks 10-20) who could fit Green Bay's potential roster needs.
Between now and draft day, when the Packers own the No. 15 overall selection in the first round, those players will be profiled with thumbnail sketches and videos known as "Prospect Primers."
Today's player is …
Nolan Smith, Edge, Georgia
Height/Weight: 6-2, 238
Key stats: In 14 games in 2021, recorded 3½ sacks among nine tackles for loss, plus 27 QB pressures, an interception, three forced fumbles and a blocked punt.
College honors: Co-winner of Bulldogs' defensive newcomer of the year award in 2019 as true freshman.
Background/other info: Was a major contributor to Georgia's 2021 national championship and became that defense's premier playmaker in 2022 after several first-round draft picks went to the NFL (two to Green Bay), but saw his senior season cut short after eight games due to a torn pectoral muscle. Still had seven TFLs and three sacks in those eight games. Returned from the injury to test well at the combine, clocking 4.39 in the 40 with a 41½-inch vertical jump. Doesn't have ideal size for an NFL edge defender, but scouting reports indicate he plays the run effectively and disruptively despite smaller stature. Speed and quickness are major assets, along with strength that belies his size and a frame he can continue growing into. Georgia native went to his home-state school after two years at IMG Academy in Florida, where 274Sports Composite rated him the top overall prospect in the nation in 2019.
